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]]>The Best Campervan Holiday Ideashttp://hotelstart.co.uk/the-best-campervan-holiday-ideas
Wed, 30 Jan 2019 11:20:46 +0000http://hotelstart.co.uk/?p=98Buying a campervan and travelling around various countries to visit local attractions is a great alternative to beach holidays. Take a look at our ideas of campervan holidays. Share your recommendations with us.

Purchase a campervan

For your campervan holidays, you will need a campervan. We recommend purchasing one from the expert team at Explorer 4WD Motorhomes. Their Explorer 4WD Spirit is strong, built from fibreglass and is an extremely versatile choice. Suitable for two people.

Surfer’s Paradise

You can chase waves around coastlines. Spend your days travelling across the coasts beaches, surfing and lazing around the beach. In the UK, Devon and Cornwall are the best places for water sports and surfing.

Visit a Music Festival

If you are looking for a lively scene, rather than the peaceful countryside, why not visit a music festival? This idea is great for those music fans that are looking for a more luxurious experience. Having a campervan nearby means you’ll have a proper bed, kitchen and toilet to enjoy. See: Best Australian festivals 2019: 14 to visit this summer.

A City Break

Having a campervan means you’ll save money on accommodation. You’ll have your bed and kitchen all in one place! You can explore some of the best cities, such as Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. Many cities also have camp sites on the outskirts so you won’t have to write off city campervan holidays. Travel the world in a campervan.

Every year, more than 40,000 people climb the highest freestanding mountain of the world. Mount Kilimanjaro is quite popular that it has been called “Everyman’s Everest.” The following are the top reasons why adventurers and climbers in the world should not miss Mount Kilimanjaro.

Easy to Climb

Technically Mount Kilimanjaro is the easiest to climb among the seven summits. There is no need for a climber to use ropes or some special mountaineering gear. In fact, those who take a Voyage Kilimanjaro don’t have to have professional climbing experience. The oldest person to climb the mountain was 83 in 2011 and the youngest was 6. However, this doesn’t mean that the mountain is free of risks. On average, acute altitude sickness and rockslides killed 10 climbers every year.

Accessible and Remote

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in Tazmania, at the southern part of the equator. It sits next to Serengeti. However, regular flights from Europe to the airport in Kilimanjaro fly nonstop. Around Kilimanajaro, good support infrastructure exists for an impoverished country including outfitters, decent hotels, ground transportation and gear to rent. People can take advantage of sleeping huts on the mountain along the main route. This also has porters that carry and have the tents set up. Kitchen facilities are also on the other routes.

The Mountain is Pristine

While Everest’s base camp is strewn with some trash, the Kilimanjaro National Park is clean. All the bags are weighed by Park Rangers and trekking companies pay huge fines when the bags come down not heavy. This decreases trail dumping. Basic outhouses can be seen along the way offering privacy and keeping the mountain clean. Going to the summit, people can pass through seven trails without roads. This is the reason the wild nature of the mountain is retained.

Kilimanjaro is one of the Greatest Natural Wonders of the World

The mountain is covered by snow on the equator. Climbing it is like experiencing a walk in the equator to the North Pole. It offers dramatic animal life and vegetation changes every day. Also, Kilimanjaro is a sky island. It has altitudes that create habitat for extraordinary life forms living only on a number of peaks like the Kilimanjaro tree and the elephant flower.

Hotspot for Climate Change Studies

Some studies revealed ice cores showing 11, 7000 years old glaciers. This is projected to be gone in 20 to 30 years. Scientists work on the ice so that they can monitor and understand the phenomenon better.

Contribute to a Thriving Local Economy

A climb to Mount Kilimanjaro can generate around $20 million per year. Porters, guides, cooks, food producers, trekking and travel agencies, banks, construction companies, merchants as well as hotel employees create local jobs in the region.

Inspires Freedom

Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, the very first African nation that won independence in 1959 from the colonial power. Before its independence, incoming President Julius Nyerere initiated the lighting of a candle on top of the mountain. These days, the summit is termed as Uhuru Peak- Uhuru, which means freedom in the Swahili language.

One of the most commonly recognised agricultural products of Greece is olives. Whether eaten whole or used to create olive oil, these items have dramatically increased in popularity in the UK, over the course of the past few decades.

On the Mediterranean island of Kefalonia, the olive-growing process spans the period between November and March. The seeds are sown with a springtime yield in mind.

When visiting Kefalonia, at this time of year, you will find that there are many and varied cultural, outdoor activities to take part in. One of the most popular activities will give you a hands-on insight into the the olive product process, from beginning to end.

A number of companies will facilitate olive-picking activities for tourists. On these course, visitors will be taught to collect olives using traditional methods. You can also get a first-hand education on olive tree varieties, the ancient mythologies surrounding the olive, the social significance of the olive in Kefalonian history, and you may well pick up some top secret recipes too!

Olives are an integral part of Greek cuisine. It would truly enhance your island experience if you were to learn how to prepare meals including olives and olive oil. It is perfectly possible to do so under the guidance of the Kefalonian masters.

Olive groves are just one of the attractions of the sun-kissed island; other tourist magnets include the ruined monasteries of the region, Mediterranean fishing trips, traditional farms, vineyard excursions and even mountain climbs and other more physically demanding activities.

Once a tourist has had their fill of the islands many attractions, they are advised to kick back in a self-catering studio apartment (many of which neighbour on the olive groves) or for those seeking a bit more luxury, try the romance of the world-renowned holiday villas of Kefalonia.

]]>Here are our Top Ten Highlights for a Mekong River Cruisehttp://hotelstart.co.uk/here-are-our-top-ten-highlights-for-a-mekong-river-cruise
Fri, 07 Dec 2018 15:12:54 +0000http://hotelstart.co.uk/?p=26Here are our Top Ten Highlights for a Mekong River Cruise

The Port of Saigon

Beyond the excitement of the city centre, lies the Port of Saigon. Located on opening of the mighty Mekong Delta, this is one of the worlds’ busiest container ports. Enjoy the bustle and vitality at street level and take in the glittering skyscrapers as you sail away from the city into the Mekong Delta.

Cai Be Floating Market

The vibrancy of the Mekong Delta is no more evident than at the Cai Be floating market. Of the many busy towns and markets in Southern Vietnam, Cai Be is perhaps the most dazzling in colour and variety of produce. Hundreds of shallow wooden boats adorned with verdant sprays of vegetables, fruit, rice and fish, make this section of one of Asia’s great rivers the most spectacular.

Vinh Xuong River check-point

Vinh Xuong is a popular checkpoint from Vietnam to Cambodia, via waterways. Crossing borders always fills one with a little trepidation, but landing at the waterborne immigration and arrival jetty will add extra excitement to your adventure. Enjoy the views along the Mekong River all the way to Neak Loeung and beyond bef ore arriving at the sleepy Kaam Samnor checkpoint on the Cambodian border… and you’ll have a rare stamp in your passport too!

Phnom Penh

This resilient revitalized capital city has something for everyone. Ancient temples and French colonial architecture blend with cosmopolitan restaurants, markets and fantastic night life. Cambodia ’s commercial and political hub is also a major gateway on the Mekong with Angkor and Tongle to the west, the beaches of Sihanoukville to the south and the hill tribe minorities of the provinces to the north.

Chnok Tru Floating Town

Almost totally overlooked by tourists because of its relative remoteness on Tongle Lake, this village is completely self-sufficient. A floating school, factories to make ice for fish preservation, a church, a pagoda, service stations, livestock, stores, boat, shops, video club, karaoke bar, police station… everything is on the water.

Siem Reap (Angkor Temples)

At the end (or start) of many Mekong River cruises, just a few kilometers to the north of Tongle Lake lies the world famous historic sites this region is famous for. Over two or three days you can take in Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple, The Terrace of Elephants and The Terrace of the Leper King. One sight not to be missed is a visit Angkor Wat in time to catch the sun set as it illuminates the ancient structures.

Pha Pheng Waterfalls

Up-stream on the Mekong, as you cruise in Southern Laos, you’ll discover the breath-taking Pha Pheng Waterfalls. In this remote area, seen by very few tourists, you can take in the stunning views as the mighty Mekong thunders down accross the Lao border into Cambodia.

Champasak and the Four Thousand Islands

A less well known but equally stunning Mekong River cruise can be found upstream in Southern Laos, where the ancient capital of Champasak and the UNESCO site of Vat Phou are waiting to be discovered. The natural highlight of the “four thousand islands” archipelago is certainly not to be missed.

Irrawaddy Dolphins

Cruising for roughly 20 minutes from Don Khone, there will be a chance to see one of the world’s rarest mammals, the Irrawaddy Dolphin. These beautiful creatures can be found on more remote areas on the Mekong River

Luang Prabang and Pak Ou

In northern Laos where the Mekong meets the Nam Khan River, is the beautiful region of Luang Prabang. Among the many highlights is Wat Xieng Thong. This symbol of the city, adorned with golden gates and ornaments, glitters in the morning light. A gentle cruise further along upper Mekong brings you to Pak Ou. Hidden in the jungle, this mysterious complex of caves is carved out of towering limestone cliffs houses thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes.

From the snow-capped mountains of Tibet to the vibrant river life of Southern Vietnam, the Mekong flows through five countries with a diverse range of stunning sights to see. Most Mekong River cruises are between 4 and 8 days. Some offer excellent cabins, services and amenities, providing luxury at an affordable price.

Relaxing Mekong River cruise is an enlightening, invigorating and unforgettable experience and an exciting way to discover Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

From a tropical sun beating down on the lush rain-forests of Cambodia, to a myriad winding rivers in Vietnam’s Mekong delta or the stunning remote beauty to be found in Laos – you will witness unbelievable sun sets, unrivalled archaeological and cultural treasures, warm smiles, exotic cuisines and the frantic energy of reborn cities.

A Ngapali Beach Extension is a perfect way to round off a Burma Tour. The idyllic palm-lined beach, pristine white sands, clear blue waters of the Bay of Bengal and a host of sophisticated accommodation give Ngapali a justified reputation as the country’s premier beach getaway.

Despite the jet-setters and accolades, Ngapali Beach continues to maintain a charming fishing-village vibe: Small boats heading out day and night to catch a bounty that is later served up ‘super-fresh’ in restaurants and hotels. Ox-drawn carts amble along the beach as locals find the sand-ways a smoother ride than the rough one-lane road.

Although Ngapali is currently experiencing something of a construction boom, fewer than two dozen bungalow-style resorts spread across more than 15 miles of coast means that there’s still a lot of space on the beach. Peak season is from November to March.

Yet even at the height of the season, Ngapali is a snoozy, early-to-bed place. Things are almost comatose during the rainy season (June to October) when flights dip to once a week and most hotels either shut up shop or keep open only a handful of rooms.

Not so for all our visitors. Most of our time in Xian was dull and gloomy and the view from our lovely hotel room made us want to draw the curtains. Here, however, our view was of the Terracotta Warriors in all their glory – they did not disappoint, neither did the pandas in an equally misty Chengdu.

It was very special to watch these endangered animals who are being protected so well. The new-borns drew large crowds to their temperature controlled playpen, as did the juveniles playing hide-and-seek with us in the trees. Each of these attractions was situated in pleasant, green surroundings quite recently developed.

We could not fail to see during our visit how much building construction is going on everywhere. Many of the high-rises are interesting and imaginative, but most are not. They are a great contrast to the shapely beauty of earlier centuries. Yet we were constantly reminded of how tradition has influenced modern buildings.

The yin of the bird’s nest contrasted with the yang of the water cube in Beijing, the lion guardians of entrances, the graceful curve contrasted with stronger straight shapes in design on roof and path, the importance of water, stone, and plants.

Hang En Cave was considered to be the largest cave in the world before the discovery of Son Doong in 2009. It has its own climate, flora, fauna, underground rivers, lake and beach. A 10km trek through the rain forest gets you there, where you stay overnight on the pristine sands of its unique beach. A delicious BBQ is served before settling down for the night.

On the next morning, breakfast is served before several hours are spent exploring the caves. After an hour or so of rest comes the trek back through the rain forest to the starting point (by far the hardest part!) before driving back to the lodge.

All camping and caving equipment, as well as food, is provided, carried and prepared by the ground staff, which is a good thing as the trek through the jungle alone is only for the fit and that’s assuming they’re carrying a small pack.

‘Fit’ is a relative term so it’s for each individual to decide if they want to experience this amazing journey. My friend and I are both in our 40’s and managed perfectly well whilst the oldest member of the group was a lady of 60.

Ke Bang in northern Vietnam is home to the biggest caves in the world. Over the ages, these natural structures have grown so vast due to extreme seasonal flows of water that have washed away the limestone as well as very few earthquakes which would have caused them to collapse. This gallery show some of the high lights of Hang En Cave, from one of our Ke Bang National Park Tours.

Hang En Cave was considered to be the largest cave in the world before the discovery of Son Doong in 2009. It has its own climate, flora, fauna, underground rivers, lake and beach. A 10km trek through the rain forest gets you there, where you stay overnight on the pristine sands of its unique beach. A delicious BBQ is served before settling down for the night.

On the next morning, breakfast is served before several hours are spent exploring the caves. After an hour or so of rest comes the trek back through the rain forest to the starting point (by far the hardest part!) before driving back to the lodge.

All camping and caving equipment as well as f0od is provided, carried and prepared by the ground staff, which is a good thing as the trek through the jungle alone is only for the fit and that’s assuming they’re carrying a small pack.

‘Fit’ is a relative term so its for each individual to decide if they want to experience this amazing journey. My friend and I are both in our 40’s and managed perfectly well whilst the oldest member of the group was a lady of 60.

Inle lake is one of the most magical places in Myanmar. This vast waterway is located in the heart of Shan State which shares borders with Thailand & Laos. An Inle Lake Tour is a “must – see” part of any visit to Burma.

Located over 900 meters above sea level in the heart of the Shan Plateau, this beautiful highland lake is home to many ethnic groups with more than 30 hill tribes living in the surrounding mountains as well as ‘floating’ communities of native lake dwellers known as the Inthas.

One highlight of an Inle Lake Tour is when the Intha, Shan, Pa-O, Taung Yo, Danu, Kayah and Danaw tribal people come together at the market that moves around the lake on a five-day cycle (your guides always know where it is).